St. John’s Wort (Hypericum Perforatum)

According to an old legend, St. John’s Wort grew abundantly on the hill where Jesus was crucified.  It is a plant known under many names and associated with countless beliefs and rituals. One of them holds that if the plant is thrown in a fire, its smoke will repel demons.  Another superstition says that when placed between two slices of bread St. John’s Wort will guard against illness.

Presently, St. John’s Wort is well known as an anti-depressant and a cure for insomnia. The essential oil can be used to improve the mood, fight tiredness and exhaustion and enhance mental capacities.

St. John's Wort oil can also be used in cases of infections of the gastro-intestinal tract - ulcer, acute and chronic gastritis, enterocolitis and digestive disorders - heartburn, diarrhea, etc. It has spasmolytic effect on the smooth muscles, bile ducts, intestines, blood vessels and the ureters. It acts as a diuretic and prevents the formation of gall stones and improves the capillary walls.

St. John's Wort oil is also helpful to the cardiovascular system through improving the functioning of the heart blood vessels and regulating the pulse. It generally stimulates the immune system and is beneficial in treating burns, wounds, abscesses and other skin conditions. 
Its cosmetic applications are against wrinkles, as a cleanser and toner.

St. John’s Wort is also used in the food industry as a preservative and disinfectant.  It is common as a flavoring in liqueurs and is utilized in leather tanning.